Ibadan–Abuja Flights Resume as Air Peace and Overland Airways Restore Key Domestic Links
Air connectivity between Ibadan and Abuja is set for a major revival as both Air Peace and Overland Airways have announced the resumption of scheduled flights, following the reopening of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport. This development marks a significant boost for travellers in Oyo State and surrounding regions, restoring direct access to Nigeria’s capital and reinforcing the importance of regional air links in the country’s domestic network.
Air Peace, Nigeria’s largest carrier, will restart daily return flights between Ibadan and Abuja from December 24, 2025. The move comes in response to renewed passenger demand and the reopening of Ibadan Airport to commercial operations after months of closure for upgrades. The airline has positioned fares on the route from ₦95,000, aiming to provide an affordable and convenient option for both festive and year-round travel. This initiative is part of Air Peace’s broader domestic expansion, which also includes the resumption of flights to Warri and increased frequencies across its network to accommodate the surge in yuletide traffic and support sustained growth into 2026.
Backed by the recent addition of a third Embraer 190 to its fleet, Air Peace is reaffirming its commitment to improving connectivity, reducing travel stress, and supporting economic activity through reliable air transport. The airline’s return to Ibadan is expected to stimulate business, tourism, and family travel, while also providing a vital link for professionals and government officials commuting between the South-West and the Federal Capital Territory.
In a parallel development, Overland Airways has also announced its return to the Ibadan–Abuja route, with services set to recommence on December 23, 2025. The airline will operate three weekly flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, departing Abuja at 10:30 a.m. and returning from Ibadan at noon. Overland Airways, recognized as the pioneer operator on the Ibadan route, will deploy its new 88-seat Embraer 175 aircraft, offering both premium and economy cabins. This move is designed to ensure reliable and consistent service as the airport reopens after extensive upgrades.
Chief Operating Officer Mrs. Aderonke Emmanuel-James described the resumption as a significant milestone, highlighting Overland’s longstanding commitment to the Ibadan market. She commended the Oyo State Government for its investment in airport improvements, which have enabled the return of scheduled commercial flights after the facility’s closure since March 2025. The airline’s modern Embraer 175 promises enhanced comfort and efficiency, catering to a diverse passenger base seeking both business and leisure travel options.
The reopening of Ibadan Airport and the restoration of direct flights to Abuja are expected to have a ripple effect on the region’s economic and social landscape. For Africa’s travel industry professionals, these developments signal renewed opportunities for ticketing, tour packaging, and corporate travel management. The competitive fares and increased seat capacity will likely drive higher passenger volumes, while the presence of two reputable carriers on the route ensures greater flexibility and choice for travellers.
As Nigeria’s aviation sector continues to recover and expand, the resumption of Ibadan–Abuja flights stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the country’s airlines. The collaborative efforts between carriers and government authorities in upgrading infrastructure and restoring services underscore the critical role of air transport in national development. With enhanced connectivity now restored, Ibadan is poised to reclaim its status as a key gateway in Nigeria’s domestic aviation network, offering new prospects for growth and integration across the region.
